The stage is set for a thrilling clash between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Punjab Kings in the first qualifier of the Indian Premier League 2025. Punjab topped the points table, while Bangalore finished second. But there’s a catch – if the match gets washed out due to rain or any other reason, Punjab will directly make it to the final, thanks to their superior net run rate.
For Bangalore, this is a do-or-die situation. They haven’t made it to the final since 2016 and are yet to win a title. But if the match gets cancelled, their dreams of ending their 17-year title drought might just shatter. The IPL rules state that if the first qualifier is abandoned, the team with the better net run rate will advance to the final. In this case, Punjab’s +0.372 net run rate edges out Bangalore’s +0.301.
What’s at stake?
Both teams have been in top form, with Bangalore losing just one of their last seven matches and Punjab suffering only one defeat in their last six games. But if the match gets cancelled, Punjab will get a direct ticket to the final, while Bangalore will have to play another match to keep their title hopes alive. They’ll face the winner of the eliminator match, and the stakes will be higher than ever.
In a worst-case scenario, Bangalore’s championship dreams might just slip away. But they still have a chance to make it to the final, albeit a tougher one. The pressure is on, and the team will have to give it their all to make their title aspirations a reality. Will they be able to overcome the odds and make it to the final, or will Punjab’s superior net run rate prove to be the decisive factor? Only time will tell.
The road ahead
If the match goes ahead as scheduled, Bangalore will look to capitalize on their recent form and take down Punjab. But if the weather gods have other plans, they’ll have to be prepared for a tougher road to the final. Either way, it’s going to be a thrilling ride, and fans of both teams will be on the edge of their seats, waiting to see what unfolds.